Places James Gage Wants to Go

The dramatic upward-curving roof is one of the most iconic examples of Googie architecture that still stands today.

Once America’s most beautiful army base, this abandoned military fort on the coast of Monterey Bay has been left to the elements.

A masterpiece in Golden Gate Park by virtue of the artist’s debt.

The abandoned train depot now doubles as a well-placed rest stop for those who take the road less traveled.

Forgotten and then destroyed by fire, this was once one of the largest saltwater swimming pools in the world.

This abandoned motel doesn't welcome guests anymore, but decay and a creepy atmosphere still call it home.

A glimpse into the lives of the the Miwok and Paiute people in Yosemite National Park.

This historic tower in the California desert promises visitors a "vortex of good vibes".

A watering hole where the options for seating include a bar, patio, or subterranean cave.

Beautiful Victorian buildings from L.A.'s forgotten architectural past.

A raised boardwalk winds through a thicket of stunted, century-old trees no more than nine feet tall.

The illuminating collection of L.A. street lights is run by the city and only opens one day per month.

Authentic gondola hanging from the ceiling, notable mural in the back room.

The former Naval shipyard is open for exploring - mostly.

The quiet canyon has a tumultuous history involving a doomsday cult.

Offering commanding views of the California coastline, this restaurant was a hub for the artists and bohemians of Big Sur.

The long, arduous journey of the stones of the Abbey of New Clairvaux.

The sea once considered an ecological wasteland is now called "crown jewel of avian biodiversity" by scientists.

Rusty industrial city full of oxidized distillation towers.

One of the largest free-standing structures ever built, this dirigible hangar is now simply a giant skeleton.

This historic California cemetery holds the bodies of veterans of both the Civil War and the Donner Party.

The Empire Mine is "one of the oldest, largest, deepest, longest and richest gold mines in California."

This abandoned boat was left in place thanks to its rotting beauty.

This temple, built by an eccentric religious leader before his death, sits guarded and in ruins.